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Former Indian cricketer VB Chandrasekhar dies at 57, cops confirm suicide

Chandrasekhar, who is survived by his wife and two daughters, represented India in seven ODIs between 1988 and 1990.

Written by : TNM Staff

Former India and Tamil Nadu opening batsman V.B. Chandrasekhar was found dead at his home in Chennai on Thursday. He was 57. 

According to his family, he was upset over the losses incurred while running a cricket league team. VB Chandrasekhar owned a team called VB Kanchi Veerans in the Tamil Nadu cricket league and was also running a cricket coaching centre.

The Mylapore police confirmed to TNM that the cricketer had taken his own life. "He was under pressure on account of his financial situation. He had invested Rs 3 crore in the Kanchi Veerans TNPL team. A month ago, he had received a notice from the bank. He had accrued a lot of debt. He had mortgaged his house too. He even had tea with his family at around 5: 45 pm before going to his room," investigating official Senthil Murugan said. 

Chandrasekhar, who is survived by his wife and two daughters, represented India in seven ODIs between 1988 and 1990. He played a key role in the state's triumph in the 1987-88 season with 551 runs - the third-highest behind Brijesh Patel and Robin Singh.

Chandrasekhar was a batsman who blasted a 56-ball century - the then fastest hundred in India's first-class competition in the Irani Cup tie against Rest of India after Tamil Nadu's victory in March 1988.

In 81 first class matches, Chandrasekhar racked up 4999 runs at an average of 43.09 with 10 centuries. He had a highest score of an undefeated 237. 

Chandrasekhar also served as a national selector after retirement and coached the Tamil Nadu team during the 2012-13 season. He was appointed team director of Chennai Super Kings at the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) offered its condolences to the bereaved family. "BCCI regrets to inform that former India opener VB Chandrasekhar is no more. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his fans."

"Shell shocked to hear of the demise of V B Chandrasekar sir. My deepest condolences to the family," India opener Abhinav Mukund tweeted.

"Very shocking to hear VB Chandrashekhar Indian cricketer is no more.. very sad news .. very young to go.. rest in peace VB.. Big loss, condolences to the family," veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh tweeted.

“Deeply saddened and shocked to know about the demise of my good friend VB Chandrasekhar. Heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul RIP,” VVS Laxman tweeted. 

Terrible news...VB...too soon. Shocking! Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” tweeted Anil Kumble. 

“Extremely sad & shocked to hear about the passing away of VB Chandrasekhar sir. His consistent efforts made it possible to set the right foundation of the CSK team. He always encouraged & believed in us since very beginning. My deepest condolences to the family,” tweeted Suresh Raina. 

With IANS inputs

If you or anyone you know is feeling depressed or suicidal, consider reaching out to one of the following helplines:

Tamil Nadu:

State health department suicide helpline number - 104

Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre - 044-24640050

Telangana:  

Telangana government suicide prevention toll free number - 104 

Roshni- 040-66202000, 66202001

SEVA- 09441778290, 040 - 27504682 (between 9 AM and 7 PM)

Karnataka:

Sahai : 24-hour helpline numbers: 080- 65000111, 080-65000222

Kerala:

Maithri helpline - 0484-2540530

Chaithram helpline: 0484-2361161

Both are 24-hour helpline numbers.

Andhra Pradesh: 

Life Suicide Prevention Helpline No.78930-78930 

Roshni - 

Helpline 1: 9166202000 

Helpline 2: 9127848584

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